Editorial | If only it were plain sailing

The developments of the last days opened up a Pandora’s box. And though they have little direct impact on the business community and business in general at face value, there is consensus that the feeling of discontent across the board, culminating in the vigil held to remember Jean Paul Sofia, has a profound impact on the credibility of this government.

The Jean Paul Sofia protest highlighted the current state of government; a situation which is personified and plagued by the culture where ministers are void of initiative, denuded of power and where power lies with only one person, the Prime Minister.

And while there have been instances where Robert Abela has shown initiative and a willingness to change and lead, many of his actions have been reactive or a celebration of the continuation of works in progress.

There was however a feeling that lingered under the surface, that government is simply holding on to the wheel, unwilling to promote new initiatives, not open to new ideas and challenged to sail the waves.

The Sofia tragedy also highlighted the crisis in the construction industry and general lack of enforcement, characterised by the high number of mortalities at construction sites.

Though one cannot say that a political alternative exists today, there is definitely a spreading belief that things need to be shaken at the very, very top. That this country needs a vigorous political director and direction is something everyone believes.

Business is all about risk and confidence, and as things stand today there is a feeling of lethargy and resentment; a sentiment that is anti-government because too many old and aged problems have been allowed to gather dust and become part of our day to day chores.

There is also a strong lack of direction in economic policy, one that is intertwined with the environmental, social and sustainable vision of any modern administration.

The Sofia protest brought together people who had little or no party affiliations but embraced a general desire for this country to make a quantum jump when it comes to standards and ethical issues.

Good and sound business cannot flourish if these values are not upheld. A good-feel factor for business is a must, not a gimmick.

But when one sees that the leadership within a government has failed to address these challenges, it is perhaps the right time to ask a very pertinent question: is ‘time up’ for this administration, after all?